Rethink joining RCEP 

Dear sir,

Bangladesh’s plan to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) deserves careful attention as a long-term strategic option. RCEP is the world's largest free trade agreement, bringing together major economies across the Asia-Pacific region. Membership would provide Bangladesh with easier access to large consumer markets, reduce trade barriers, and improve opportunities for deeper regional economic integration. 

Nevertheless, RCEP membership should not be viewed as a risk-free opportunity. Greater market liberalisation may create significant pressure on local industries that are not yet sufficiently competitive. Small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as certain agricultural and manufacturing sectors, could struggle against imports from more advanced economies within the bloc.